What’s on your plate could be the problem 

Karnataka Health Minister Talks Food Risks and Reform on Good Food Talks  

Good Food Talks is Akshayakalpa Organic’s podcast series that brings together thought leaders, industry experts and health enthusiasts to share their perspectives on the changing world of food. Each episode dives into how mindful consumption, local produce and transparent food systems can help shape a healthier future for all.  

In this episode, Shri Dinesh Gundu Rao, Hon’ble Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Government of Karnataka, joins host Vachana Shetty for an honest conversation on food safety, nutrition and the growing need for public awareness around what we eat.  

Why does this episode matter? 

As India continues to face a growing health crisis driven by poor dietary choices and lack of information, conversations like this are more important than ever. They remind us that real change begins with awareness and grows when individuals, families, and institutions work together. 

Highlights from the discussion  

The Minister highlights some of the positive steps already being taken, like the CBSE’s ‘sugar board’ initiative which helps students understand how much sugar is present in packaged food. He encourages more schools across the country to take up similar efforts. 

He also calls for stronger food labelling laws and mandatory warning signs on unhealthy foods. According to him, risks like food adulteration, misinformation and aggressive advertising need to be addressed as serious public health concerns.  

Importantly, he points out the need to prioritise women’s health and nutrition, especially in both public policy and in everyday household decisions.  

Here’s why you should tune in to the episode:  

This isn’t just policy talk, it’s also about the everyday choices you make at the grocery store, what your kids eat at school, and how safe the food on your plate really is. The episode dives into things that directly impact your health, your family’s well-being and the trust you place in the food system. 

• What’s in your cotton candy or gobi Manchurian? 
  Turns out, more than you’d expect. A quiet ban has changed how popular street foods are made—and for good reason. 

• That birthday cake? It is safer now 
  Some ingredients didn’t make the cut. The Minister explains what was removed and why it matters. 

• Microplastics in idlis and fake paneer? 
  Not a rumour. He talks about real contamination risks and how the system is trying to fix them. 

• Is your drinking water really safe? 
  From bottled water to home taps, the concern is real—and so is the plan to clean it up. 

• Kids are leading the food awareness movement 
  With school kiosks and gardening lessons, the state is helping children become conscious consumers early. 

• Misinformation on food labels is a serious issue 
  Front-of-pack claims can mislead. 
  The Minister hints at what could be the next big crackdown: false labels. 

• What’s next on the Minister’s list? 
  From processed food to sugar overload and obesity, he lays out the bigger food policy shifts already in motion. 

Good Food Talks continues to be a space where science, policy and real-life stories come together to inspire better choices and build a future rooted in good food. 

Watch the full episode on YouTube: Good Food Talks Ep 11 | Shri Dinesh Gundu Rao on Food Safety & Public Health | Akshayakalpa Organic